Fort Lauderdale Car Accident Attorney Blog
Highway truck collisions can pose dangers to motorists if there is impact, but they can also create serious hazards depending on what cargo is being transported. In a recent case, a big-rig overturned on I-95 releasing approximately 16 million to 20 million bees onto a Delaware highway. The truck was transporting the bees from Florida to Maine at the time of the accident. According to police reports, the driver and his two passengers were taken by ambulance and treated at a nearby hospital. All three of the accident victims were stung by at least 50 to 100 bees.
The tractor-trailer accident and swarming bees continue to pose a risk to motorists on the Interstate. Drivers have been advised to keep their windows closed and not to pull over or stop unless they are in an emergency. Our Fort Lauderdale truck accident attorneys are experienced in handling complex cases involving collisions and highway injury. We are abreast of legal developments and cases in Florida and nationwide. Our firm is committed to holding responsible parties accountable to prevent future accidents and injury.
According to reports, the big-rig was carrying approximately 460 beehives. After the accident, it was estimated that between 16 million to 20 million bees swarmed the highway. It took more than 12 hours for clean-up crews to leave the scene. Responders wore protective gear and sprayed foam over the hives and surrounding area to control the swarms. This was the first time that the state police were forced to activate a “honeybee swarm removal plan,” an emergency protocol that was established in 1995. Authorities say that but for the few bees that got loose, the plan worked. The honeybee removal plan was recently updated and involved a network of expert beekeepers statewide. The beekeepers responded to the scene immediately after the accident and used fire hoses and foam to beat the swarms.
Authorities reported that the driver was transporting the bees from Florida to Maine to assist with blueberry production. The driver of the tractor-trailer was cited for unsafe shifting of load or cargo. Accident reports were not more specific about how the cargo was improperly loaded, but the accident could give rise to civil liability. Any truck accident case resulting in injury or fatality will give rise to an investigation. In this case, it is still unknown whether there were additional victims of the collision. Truck drivers as well as trucking companies can be held liable for negligence when there is an accident that results injury.
It is likely that investigations will be pursued by both private and public entities. Every truck accident case should also be reviewed and investigated by an experienced and independent legal advocate who can work on behalf of victims. When an accident involves a large trucking company, it is important to consult with an attorney who can determine the cause of the accident and ensure that responsible parties are held accountable. If you or someone you love was involved in a trucking accident, you may be entitled to significant compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and long-term care needs.
Freeman Injury Law — 1-800-561-7777 for a free appointment to discuss your rights.
More Blog Entries:
Florida Troopers Crack Down on Distracted Driving With “Staying Alive on I-75”, April 2, 2014, Fort Lauderdale Car Accident Lawyer Blog
Insurance Dispute in Chain-Reaction Collisions – One Collision or Two? March 7, 2014, Fort Lauderdale Car Accident Lawyer Blog